What containers are best for starting seeds?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Selecting the best containers for seed starting avoids root disturbance and increases germination success. Specific plants prefer certain containers. Choosing your containers makes a significant difference in how easily you can water and transfer plants. Knowing the plants' preferences will require picking container types that match to get the best outcome.
Root-Sensitive Plants
- Cucumbers: Biodegradable pots prevent transplant shock
- Squash: Peat pots allow roots to penetrate walls
- Melons: Cow pots decompose naturally in soil
- Zinnias: Paper pots suitable for delicate roots
Reusable Systems
- Tomatoes: Plastic cell trays with drainage
- Peppers: Six-pack inserts for easy separation
- Herbs: Modular trays with removable dividers
- Flowers: Sterilizable plastic pots
DIY Options
- Lettuce: Egg cartons with drainage holes
- Radishes: Toilet paper rolls cut in half
- Beans: Newspaper pots folded into shapes
- Peas: Yogurt cups with bottom holes
Soil blockers produce self-contained root balls without any physical containers. Compressed soil cubes hold their shape as soon as they receive watering. Roots also air-prune naturally at the edges of the cube, which leaps transplants shock completely. When planting, there are no more containers to remove.
Ensure that each of your containers has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot. For DIY options, you want to make several holes. Elevate containers on cocoons or racks, and use trays for excess water. Good drainage will help maintain healthy levels of oxygen in the soil.
Select a container size based on the desired growth rate of the plant. Cucumber seedlings are very fast and require deeper pots. Slow-growing herbs thrive in shallow cells. Containers that are too large waste precious soil, not to mention the space they occupy. Containers that are too small will not allow adequate root growth. Look for specific size recommendations on seed packets.
Clean reusable containers thoroughly between seasons. Soak in bleach solution (1:10 ratio). Rinse well to remove residues. Sterilization prevents disease transfer. Your careful preparation ensures healthy starts every year.
Read the full article: When to Start Seeds Indoors: Ultimate Guide
